While it’s often said that Virginia is the dream destination for romantic souls, it also recently proved to be a momentous venue for the Solheim Cup, one of golf’s most exhilarating team competitions. U.S, having endured a long pause in its association with the Cup, won the event despite valiant efforts from Charley Hull and her European counterparts, who were on the brink of making history. This victory reminded golf enthusiasts of why the Solheim Cup is deeply cherished, leaving many eagerly anticipating its return in the Netherlands in 2026.
The European team, under Suzann Pettersen’s leadership, demonstrated tremendous resilience in an attempt to secure the trophy for a record-breaking fourth consecutive time. However, the U.S team held their composure, leading to a 15½ to 12½ scoreline that justifiably reflected both their determination and the European team’s dauntless spirit. The host team at the Robert Trent Jones Golf Club managed to cross the finish line in a manner reminiscent of a fatigued marathon runner, rather than a triumphant champion.
The appeal of the Solheim Cup is its inherent competitive intensity. Many initially deemed the U.S win a given, but a quieter than usual crowd during the final session hinted at the American team’s fragility. But then, in the ninth of twelve matches, Lilia Vu brought the party to life.
Despite Europe’s loss, Charley Hull’s performance was one to remember. She was pitted against Nelly Korda with Europe already behind by ten to six, but her 6&4 victory gave her team a glimmer of hope for a possible comeback. Hull’s win over the world number one golfer and her incredible second shot at the par five 14th hole, bringing her within mere inches of the hole, made it clear that it was game over for Korda, and gives Hull newfound confidence in her quest for a major title.
“Suzann had faith in me to play against Nelly first. She believed in me, knowing I had the ability to conquer,” Hull stated. “This boosted my self-belief. I had a great run yesterday, scoring eight under with my own ball, and today I managed seven under through 14 holes. I’m confident about playing against Nelly knowing that I still have a few shots up my sleeve.”
Georgia Hall elevated EU’s spirits by defeating Alison Lee 4&3. However, the US retaliated swiftly with Megan Khang, who outdid Emily Pedersen 6&5. Further victories were celebrated by Allisen Corpuz and Rose Zhang, which brought the host team tantalisingly close to their goal, a mere one and a half points away. There was a tense vibe though; Europe was ahead in four of the remaining seven games.
Lexi Thompson, who intends to retire at the end of this season, unsurprisingly found herself in the spotlight, as always. Thompson held a 3up lead over Céline Boutier after 11 holes, but then Boutier went on a birdie streak, netting five in seven holes. The match eventually went to Boutier on the last green.
The game’s outcome is always determined by the smallest of differences. Maja Stark was 3up after 10 against Lauren Coughlin, only to lose two of the subsequent three holes. A faulty shot resulted in Stark find the water on the 14th, levelling the match and giving the US a slight breath of relief. Andrea Lee managed to draw level with Esther Henseleit on the 16th green, which secured the first halved match of the tournament, nudging the US at 13½ to 10½. Coughlin, playing in her home state, missed a 20ft putt to win the Solheim Cup on the last hole, after Stark hit her birdie attempt 10ft beyond. In an extraordinary turn of events, Coughlin fell short while Stark confidently sealed a half point. The US was on the brink of victory.
The focus swiftly shifted to the European newcomer, Albane Valenzuela, who held a one point lead over Vu whilst on the 18th. Valenzuela’s approach shot was mediocre at best, an opportunity that Vu took masterfully, driving a wedge into tap-in range. Valenzuela’s missed shot from 30ft sealed her fate, thus allowing Vu to claim the US victory, their first since 2017. Jennifer Kupcho overcame Linn Grant to add to the tally as did Madelene Sagstrom against Sarah Schmelzel.
US team captain Stacy Lewis, with great satisfaction, mentioned how stressful it was but also the joy of the win being on their side this time. The Liwer’s team had a chance to grab the cup last year in Spain, however, the European rivals managed a 14-14 draw. This recent event caught Pettersen off-guard, depicted clearly when faced with this defeat.
Pettersen’s choice to sideline Ireland’s Leona Maguire on three occasions, and notably, twice on the second day has been a mystery. A determined Maguire returned to the green defeating Ally Ewing 4&3, which highlighted further inquiries regarding the Cavan golfer’s inactivity. Maguire expressed discontent at the situation, terming it as a tough pill to swallow.
Regarding Pettersen, Maguire noted: “She didn’t provide a firm rationale, if I’m honest. The impression I received was that I was a bit lacking and had fewer birdies than required. Though my performance today showcased there are multiple strategies to a win. I had numerous birdies today.” This concluded the Solheim Cup with a fierce final blow.